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Reservations After Dark

Dinner last night was like one of those amazing first dates where everything goes just right and you don’t want the evening to end. I woke up today with butterflies in my stomach as I reminisced about every delicious detail. My spectacular date last night was with Reservations Gourmet-To-Go which is located in the eclectic neighborhood of Seminole Heights. Owned by Anthony and Elke Catania, it is a hidden gem that serves exquisite dishes made with local ingredients.

I first learned about Reservations about two years ago when my web-designer told me how fantastic they were and suggested I check them out as soon as possible. Since they are open Monday through Friday from 11:30 am until 6 pm, it was hard for me to get over there with my restricted hour lunch and working until 5 pm. I decided to have lunch from them catered at my office one day and everyone was blown away at how delicious everything was. We had a variety of sandwiches such as Caprese, Chicken Picatta, Chicken Caesar and a Chef’s Choice Hero. My co-workers were thrilled and I looked like a rock star. I planned on going back for lunch as soon as my schedule would permit.

A few weeks ago, they launched Reservations After Dark which is a intimate dinner service on Saturday nights from 6 until 10pm. Each week, they offer a new menu with seasonal and unique creations prepared by Chef Anthony. I was delighted to be able to go and experience this special dinner service and promptly made a reservation.

It had been two years since I had seen Elke and Anthony and I was excited to see them again. Walking in I was instantly intrigued as candles on each table illuminated the intimate setting. This is the perfect spot for a romantic dinner or to enjoy a special night with good friends.

As I looked over the evening’s menu, I was impressed with the variety of selections. My friend and I each started with a small plate. He ordered the Lobster Bisque which was savory and creamy with chunks of fresh lobster. I only had a taste, but it was spectacular and he really enjoyed it. The presentation was simple and elegant.

I opted for their Prosciutto, Sweet Fig, Parmesan Reggiano, Chive and Radicchio. Every item on this dish is one of my favorites and I was really impressed with this selection. The combination of the sweet figs and prosciutto was simply intoxicating. Food porn at its best, this dish left me wanting more.

For the main course, my friend went with their Grilled Rib Steak with Jalapeño Butter. Served atop grilled bruschetta and adorned with fingerling potatoes and sautéed spinach, it was fantastic. Now, I am a medium-rare girl and he ordered his medium-well, which to me is a sin. Nevertheless, I tried a bite and it was spectacular. The jalapeño butter was a unique blend of salty and spicy and I could not stop raving about it. It just melted into every nook and cranny and accentuated the flavor of the succulent steak. Magnifico!

I went with their Blackberry Glazed Pork Chop with Blackberry Demi Glace. Served with Creamy Parmesan Polenta and Roasted Cauliflower Moutarde, it was insanely delicious. Thick and juicy, the smokey flavor of the pork blended magically with the blackberry demi glace. I thoroughly enjoyed it and can’t tell you how many times I said, “Oh wow! Oh my god! Amazing!” I must have resembled Meg Ryan in When Harry Met Sally because the table next to me wanted what I was having. Sure enough, they ordered the same. 🙂

My evening ended on a sweet note with their Sweetened Ricotta, Pistachio, Shaved Chocolate and Whipped Cream. Truly an orgasmic combination in a dish, it was an incredible blend of flavors. The nuttiness of the pistachio paired so well with the sweet Ricotta and I savored each and every bite. This dessert was nice and light and was the perfect conclusion to my memorable evening.

Reservations is a food lovers dream and I can’t wait to go back. In fact, I am organizing a few dates in the next few months where a small group of my food-loving friends and I can enjoy an intimate evening at Reservations After Dark. If you are looking for a a great spot with exquisite food, I urge you to dine at Reservations. You can bring your own wine and there is no corkage fee. Be sure to like them on Facebook for specials and updates. You can find their page by clicking here.